2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,261 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 497 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 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
