1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 611 kg more than 2008 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 S 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 S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | S | 156 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
