1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 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 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 615 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
