2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 658 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SL | 146 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
