2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (131 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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 (206 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 190 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
