2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 550 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 5.4 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 Weight | 1355 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
