2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1989 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1989 Holden Commodore. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 425 kg more than 1989 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Holden Commodore 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 1989 Holden Commodore. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Commodore. (292 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1989 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | Spider | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2740 mm |
