2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 weights approximately 6 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
