2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 19.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
