2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 440 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
