2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (363 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 700 kg more than 2008 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 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | S | 156 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 363 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.3 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 63 L |
