2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 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 3,179 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 9 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2010 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 2010 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
