2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (176 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 215 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
