2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
