2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 62 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. (53 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 20 kg more than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. (139 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | 230 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1941 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2229 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3060 mm |
