2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500
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 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 (240 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 132 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 500 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 500. 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 500 (401 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 228 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 | 1488 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
