2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1954 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (114 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. (83 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1954 Mercedes-Benz S (157 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1954 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1954 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2830 mm |
