2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
