2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Spider | S |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1890 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |