1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | 200 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 130 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 29.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
