2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (286 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 weights approximately 754 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 4196 cc |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2004 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3150 mm |
