2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 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 357 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 685 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 701 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 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:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 147 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 18.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
