2002 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 555 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Porsche 356 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 1958 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | Spider | 356 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
