1997 Renault Spider vs. 1988 Renault 4
To start off, 1997 Renault Spider is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Spider (140 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1988 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Spider weights approximately 295 kg more than 1988 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 1997 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 4, 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, 1997 Renault Spider (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Renault Spider | 1988 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | Spider | 4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
