2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 310 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 146 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
