2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 7,990 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Viper (376 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Viper weights approximately 83 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge 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 1998 Dodge Viper. 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, 1998 Dodge Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 439 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Viper 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 | 1998 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Dodge |
| Model | Spider | Viper |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 7990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
