2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 605 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 411 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3035 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.3 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
