2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 174 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2950 mm |
