2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 535 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 147 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
