2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 60 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 166 | S |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 85 L |