2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1981 Bitter SC
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Bitter SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Bitter SC 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 (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Bitter SC. (177 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1981 Bitter SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 120 kg more than 1981 Bitter SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Bitter SC 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 1981 Bitter SC. 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 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Bitter SC. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Bitter SC. 1981 Bitter SC 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. 1981 Bitter SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1981 Bitter SC | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bitter |
| Model | Spider | SC |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
