1981 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Taurus weights approximately 110 kg more than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus, 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, 2008 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
Model | Spider | Taurus |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1570 cc | 3495 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6251 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 338 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4501 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 5130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2870 mm |