2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
