1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 14 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), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 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 | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Audi |
| Model | Spider | R8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
