1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 7 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 690 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
