1996 Acura NSX vs. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura NSX (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (236 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 100 kg more than 1996 Acura NSX.
Because 1996 Acura NSX 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 1996 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura NSX.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Acura NSX | 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | |
Make | Acura | Alfa Romeo |
Model | NSX | Spider |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 3179 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 236 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 284 Nm | 289 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 93.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |