2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz S 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 65 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2950 mm |
