1989 Alfa Romeo RZ vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm) has 586 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ. (244 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ has manual transmission. 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RZ | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 510 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
