2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 335 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 400 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 159 | SL |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1908 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |