2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 675 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2002 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
