2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1970 Fiat 500
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 1002 kg more than 1970 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 500 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 1970 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 500. (24 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1970 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | Spider | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 14 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 24 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1850 mm |
