1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 154 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SL | 156 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
