2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1988 Ferrari 348
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ferrari 348. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ferrari 348 would be higher. At 3,404 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Ferrari 348 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ferrari 348 (295 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ferrari 348 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 5 kg more than 1988 Ferrari 348.
Because 1988 Ferrari 348 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 1988 Ferrari 348. 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, 1988 Ferrari 348 (323 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1988 Ferrari 348 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1988 Ferrari 348 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | Spider | 348 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3404 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
