2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1605 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A | 146 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
