1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 8 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 366 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 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Nissan |
| Model | Spider | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| 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 | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
