2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 26 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, both vehicles can yield 275 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
