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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (119 HP @ 6200 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 640 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 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 | 1598 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
