2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
