2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 320 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1480 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
