2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1971 AC 428
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 40 kg more than 1971 AC 428.
Because 1971 AC 428 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 1971 AC 428. 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, 1971 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1971 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1971 AC 428 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AC |
| Model | Spider | 428 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
