2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (94 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 166 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 250 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
