2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | 350 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
