2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (169 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 26 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SE |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
