2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 65 L |
