2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1981 Ford Escort
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 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort 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 166 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 516 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Escort |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
