2004 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 360 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 147 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 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 | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 85 L |
