2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
