1998 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 6 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 168 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 2004 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (410 Nm) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang 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 | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
