1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2008 Jaguar XJ is newer by 11 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jaguar XJ (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 314 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 2008 Jaguar XJ 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 2008 Jaguar XJ. 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, 2008 Jaguar XJ (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2008 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | Spider | XJ |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
