2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 146 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
