2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 70 L |
