2008 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
