2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 511 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 2021 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
