2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (356 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 370 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 356 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 13.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
