2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 535 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 159 | S |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2386 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 570 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 2240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |