2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,606 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 450 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | E | 156 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2606 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
