1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Saleen S7
To start off, 2008 Saleen S7 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 595 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 123 kg more than 2008 Saleen S7.
Because 2008 Saleen S7 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 Saleen S7. 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 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 762 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Saleen S7 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 | 2008 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Saleen |
| Model | Spider | S7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 2.8 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 | 1370 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2692 mm |
