2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. (165 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 30 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1992 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |
