2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 14.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
