1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 203 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 230 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 63 L |
