1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 907 kg more than 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint. (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint has manual transmission. 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sprint | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1712 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 918 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
