2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV 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 19 more horse power than 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV. (129 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 303 kg more than 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV 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 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV. 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, both vehicles can yield 181 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Alfa Romeo GTV | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Spider | GTV |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1179 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
