2003 AC Cobra vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 6 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 288 kg more than 2003 AC Cobra.
Because 2003 AC Cobra 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 2003 AC Cobra. 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, 2003 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | |
| Make | AC | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Cobra | Spider |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2550 mm |
