1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 345 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SL | 156 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 289 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
