2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (185 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 615 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 (305 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 2293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 225 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 | 1435 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2810 mm |
