2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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 SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.2 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
