2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
