2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A | 156 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 248 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
