1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (169 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2148 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
