2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
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 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 195 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
