2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 310 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1560 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
