2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1560 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 156 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1910 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
