1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 110 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2001 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
