2002 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 85 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 147 | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
