2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 166. (226 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 445 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 445 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 166. (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 166. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SL | 166 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |
