1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 15 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 125 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.6 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
