2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC would be higher. At 2,194 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC. (105 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC weights approximately 145 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC 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 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 Mercedes-Benz SC | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SC |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |
