1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 570 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 6208 cc |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
