1996 Alfa Romeo 155 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 is newer by 11 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155, 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 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 155 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
