1982 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,858 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Spider | 159 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1570 cc | 1858 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
