2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 5 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 730 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 537 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | CL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
