2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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 (323 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 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 |
