2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1990 Chrysler Viper

To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1990 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 120 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 Chrysler Viper 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 1990 Chrysler Viper. 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, 1990 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1990 Chrysler Viper 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 1990 Chrysler Viper
Make Alfa Romeo Chrysler
Model Spider Viper
Year Released 2003 1990
Body Type Roadster Roadster
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3179 cc 7986 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 10 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 236 HP 389 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5150 RPM
Torque 289 Nm 620 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 3600 RPM
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 1590 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1930 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1130 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2450 mm