2008 Alfa Romeo Brera vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 299 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Brera | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
