1958 Abarth 500 vs. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (247 HP) has 227 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 962 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Abarth 500 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 1958 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | |
| Make | Abarth | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 500 | Spider |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 247 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 115 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 70 L |
