2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 405 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
