1981 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 31 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 317 more horse power than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. (103 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Alfa Romeo Spider. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 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 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Audi |
| Model | Spider | R8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1570 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2649 mm |
