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 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 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. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 221 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 @ 2750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). 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 | 3179 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
