2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 735 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2007 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.3 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 11.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
