2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1959 Ford Zephyr
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1959 Ford Zephyr. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 320 kg more than 1959 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Ford Zephyr 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 1959 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Alfa Romeo Spider (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Zephyr. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1959 Ford Zephyr | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Zephyr |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
