2007 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1981 Ferrari 208
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 208 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 44 more horse power than 1981 Ferrari 208. (153 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1981 Ferrari 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 430 kg more than 1981 Ferrari 208. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ferrari 208 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 1981 Ferrari 208. 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 1981 Ferrari 208. (170 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1981 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | Spider | 208 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 71 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2350 mm |
