2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 (235 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. (246 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 190 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 7.1 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 | 1480 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
