2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 480 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (115 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 146 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 67.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
