2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 314 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 18.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
