2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 3 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 206 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 | 1542 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3080 mm |
