2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 196 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | 250 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 72.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
