1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 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 (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 555 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 66 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 1978 Volvo 66. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (186 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | 66 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
