2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 194 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
