2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2940 mm |
