1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
