2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3080 mm |
