1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 156 | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |