1987 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 400 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1853 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 33 | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1712 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 977 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
