2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 2,987 cc, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 325 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2987 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
