1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP) has 187 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. (115 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 640 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. (163 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate has manual transmission. 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Graduate | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 80 L |
