2003 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 628 kg more than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Barchetta | 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barchetta | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2961 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 80 L |
