2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1959 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,781 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Jaguar XK (265 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (256 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 292 kg more than 1959 Jaguar XK.
Because 1959 Jaguar XK 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 1959 Jaguar XK. 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, 1959 Jaguar XK (353 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1959 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1959 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | Spider | XK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 3781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 106 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1473 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2600 mm |
