2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
