2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 520 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | S | 146 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
