2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 875 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Porsche 356 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 1958 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Porsche 356. (121 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | Spider | 356 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1730 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
