1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 515 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
