2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, both vehicles can yield 189 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 106 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1404 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
