2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 169 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
