2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 485 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, both vehicles can yield 385 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 90 L |
