2007 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 110 kg more than 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
