2004 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 30 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 75 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (147 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 147 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
