1984 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 400 more horse power than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. (93 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 670 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. (130 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1984 Alfa Romeo 33 has manual transmission. 1984 Alfa Romeo 33 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 33 | SL |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
