1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (207 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 280 kg more than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (401 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SL | 159 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
