1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 790 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 146 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
