2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 147 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
