2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 400 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 156 | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3177 cc | 3197 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 224 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |