1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 89 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1803 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1474 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
