2007 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 451 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | 244 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
