1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 462 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 670 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 832 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 146 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.6 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 18.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
