2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (138 HP @ 1800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 320 kg more than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 164 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 1800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
