2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 755 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 524 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
