2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1987 Porsche 959
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Porsche 959. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Porsche 959 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Porsche 959 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Porsche 959 (450 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Porsche 959 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 32 kg more than 1987 Porsche 959.
Because 1987 Porsche 959 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Porsche 959 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Porsche 959 (500 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Porsche 959 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1987 Porsche 959 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | Spider | 959 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 3.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |
