1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (361 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 341 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 145 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
