1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 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 3,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 25 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2009 Dodge Nitro 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. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Dodge |
| Model | Spider | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 74 L |
