1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 15 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | R |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
