2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 350 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |
