2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500
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 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. (245 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 244 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 500. 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 500 (399 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3458 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3080 mm |
