2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
