2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 161 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 156 | 380 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |