1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2002 Porsche 996 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Porsche 996 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | Spider | 996 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2360 mm |
