2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 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 109 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 414 kg more than 2005 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
