2003 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 375 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 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 Spider. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Spider | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 289 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |