2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 625 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Porsche 356 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 1959 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (121 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | Spider | 356 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 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 | 1480 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
