1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (404 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 2012 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. 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 Porsche 911 (420 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2012 Porsche 911 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. 2012 Porsche 911 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | Spider | 911 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 404 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
