2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 427 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3050 mm |
