1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 85 kg more than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
Model | SL | 159 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1859 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |