2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 590 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3165 mm |
