2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
