2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,969 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
