2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 89 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.9 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 | 1494 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
