2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
