2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Lexus GS
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus GS 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 25 more horse power than 1998 Lexus GS. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 192 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1998 Lexus GS 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 1998 Lexus GS. 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, 1998 Lexus GS (301 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1998 Lexus GS 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. 1998 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lexus |
| Model | Spider | GS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
