1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 6 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 142 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 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang 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 | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
