2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 320 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spider | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
