1996 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 146 | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
