2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1977 Ford Taunus
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (182 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1977 Ford Taunus. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 460 kg more than 1977 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Ford Taunus 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 1977 Ford Taunus. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Taunus. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1977 Ford Taunus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Taunus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 94 L |
