1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,596 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 325 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
