2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 790 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 156 | S |
Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 570 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 80.2 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |