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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 31 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 180 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1598 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
