2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
