2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 470 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
