2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,387 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 5 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 225 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
