1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A | 156 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1687 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
