2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1969 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 895 kg more than 1969 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Fiat 500 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 1969 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1969 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | Spider | 500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1405 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 22 L |
