2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 75 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 180 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Spider | SLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 289 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |