1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 425 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.
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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
