2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 594 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | R | 156 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2130 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.9 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
