2002 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 555 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
