2010 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 (207 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 (401 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | SL |
| Year Released | 2010 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| 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 | 207 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
