1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 567 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | E | 156 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
