1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 15 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 181 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 2012 Ford Mustang 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 2012 Ford Mustang. 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, 2012 Ford Mustang (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang 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 | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1566 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
