2003 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 3,172 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT, 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 GT (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo GT has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo GT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo GT | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GT | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3172 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
