2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1990 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A | 164 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
