2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1972 TVR 1600
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 TVR 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 TVR 1600 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 (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1972 TVR 1600. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1972 TVR 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 584 kg more than 1972 TVR 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 TVR 1600 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 1972 TVR 1600. 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 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 TVR 1600. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 TVR 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1972 TVR 1600 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | Spider | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2290 mm |
