2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 475 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SL | 156 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 68.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
