1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1961 Ford Popular
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 620 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Popular 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 1961 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1961 Ford Popular | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Popular |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
