1997 AC Cobra vs. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 704 kg more than 1997 AC Cobra.
Because 1997 AC Cobra 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 1997 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1997 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 AC Cobra | 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | |
| Make | AC | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Cobra | Spider |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2385 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
