2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 156 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
