1996 Mercedes-Benz V vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 350 kg more than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz V | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | V | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2710 mm |
