1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2011 Ford Explorer 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. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
