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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 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 545 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 4800 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 | 3179 cc | 4195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.9 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
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 | 1990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |