1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2002 Ferrari 550
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 5,473 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Ferrari 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 377 more horse power than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 688 kg more than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550, 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. 2002 Ferrari 550 has automatic transmission and 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ferrari 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2002 Ferrari 550 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | Spider | 550 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1570 cc | 5473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
