1995 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1995 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Alfa Romeo 145 (148 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1995 Alfa Romeo 145.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Alfa Romeo 145. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Alfa Romeo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 145 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
