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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 362 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 520 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 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 649 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 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 | 1908 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 4.8 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 | 1430 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 6.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 13.3 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 80 L |