1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 12 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 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (143 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 205 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | B |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
