2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (156 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
