2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 82 L |
