1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 120 kg more than 1998 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 C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 1803 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
