2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SL | 164 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.9 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
