2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 97 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2810 mm |
