2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 320 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 166. (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 166. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | E | 166 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2604 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 425 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
