2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 445 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
