2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2996 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1225 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
