1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Jaguar S-Type
To start off, 2009 Jaguar S-Type 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jaguar S-Type is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jaguar S-Type (301 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar S-Type should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jaguar S-Type weights approximately 325 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 2009 Jaguar S-Type 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 Jaguar S-Type. 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 Jaguar S-Type (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Jaguar S-Type will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2009 Jaguar S-Type 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 Jaguar S-Type will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2009 Jaguar S-Type | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | Spider | S-Type |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2070 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 11.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
