2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 80 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
