2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1395 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
