1998 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2003 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2003 Subaru Outback is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 2,456 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Outback weights approximately 165 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Outback 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, 2003 Subaru Outback (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2003 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Subaru |
| Model | Spider | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
