1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 410 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Alfa Romeo Spider (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Wartburg |
| Model | Spider | 312 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
