2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1966 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Triumph Spitfire 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 130 more horse power than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Triumph Spitfire 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 1966 Triumph Spitfire. 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 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Triumph Spitfire. (93 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1966 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Triumph |
| Model | Spider | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 37 L |
