2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (248 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 20 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 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 C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 156 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
