2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 398 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 709 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 156 | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 630 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1939 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4592 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |