1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1987 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 1987 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 230 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 198 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 | 200 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
