2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Spider | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 237 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 289 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |