2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 60 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 69 L |
