1983 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 105 kg more than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. (183 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | R |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
