2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 422 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 451 kg more than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 769 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 2066 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
