2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 340 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram 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 1998 Dodge Ram. 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Dodge |
| Model | Spider | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2790 mm |
