1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Spider | SLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 144 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |