1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 555 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 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Spider | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 144 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
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 | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |