1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 447 more horse power than 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 700 kg more than 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51 will offer significantly more control. 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51 has manual transmission. 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Alfa Romeo AR 51 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | AR 51 | SL |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1884 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2570 mm |
