Best Car Reviews - 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider

Introduction

Unveiled in 1986, the Alfa Romeo Spider remains a quintessential symbol of Italian automotive craftsmanship. Designed with elegance and performance in mind, this two-seater roadster appeals to car enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of classic design and spirited driving. The Alfa Romeo Spider stands out due to its timeless design, engaging manual transmission, and a rear-wheel drive that promises a pure driving experience.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider showcases the brand's dedication to sleek, athletic aesthetics combined with a classic roadster silhouette. Renowned for its:

• Sculpted lines and smooth curves that reflect its sporty nature.
• Iconic front grille that embodies Alfa Romeo's rich heritage.
• Streamlined body size, contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency.

Standout Features:

• Attractive alloy wheels enhancing both look and performance.
• Elegant pop-up headlights that emphasize its vintage charm.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Spider offers a cozy cabin that focuses on driver engagement and passenger comfort. The seats are crafted with premium materials for durable support, while the controls are intuitively placed for ease of use.

Key Interior Highlights:

• Leather-trimmed seats enhancing driver comfort.
• Classic wood-trimmed steering wheel adding a touch of luxury.
• Minimalistic dashboard design ensuring driver focus.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider boasts a four-cylinder engine that emphasizes balance rather than sheer power. The engine's front-facing setup aids in optimal weight distribution, further enhancing its famed handling characteristics.

Performance Specifications:

• Engine: FFS with a manual 5-speed transmission.
• Drive: Rear-wheel drive promoting an engaging drive experience.
• Acceleration: From 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9.5 seconds.

For those spirited drives:

• City driving feels connected and dynamic with crisp throttle response.
• Highway rides are smooth, with the engine maintaining composure at higher speeds.

Fuel Efficiency:

• Consumes about 14.167 l/100 km, offering a balanced trade-off between performance and efficiency.

Standout Features:

• Balanced handling precision makes it adept at navigating tight turns.

Technology and Connectivity

While the Spider might not boast cutting-edge technology, its basics offer dependability and ease of use, appealing to purists who prioritize driving thrills over tech.

Technology Features:

• Compact cabin instrumentation providing essential driving metrics.
• No-nonsense, easily accessible control switches for various functions.

Safety Features

Safety might not have been the Spider's selling point, but its sturdy build design provides confidence:

Standard Safety Features:

• Four-wheel disc brakes ensuring consistent stopping power.
• Crash safety designed to meet basic safety regulations of its time.

Pricing and Variants

The 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider comes with a base price of approximately $16,000 USD, which was competitive for its class at the time. While often found in a single trim, its price made it a desirable choice among enthusiasts when lined against rivals like the Mazda MX-5.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Classic, timeless design that ages gracefully.
• Engaging manual transmission with satisfying shifts.
• Responsive steering with predictable handling.
• Comfy seating with a supportive feel for spirited drives.
• Nostalgic driving experience without electronic nannies.

Cons

• Modest power output compared to modern standards.
• Outdated interior technology for current preferences.
• Higher fuel consumption than newer roadsters.
• Limited modern safety features.
• Maintenance can be challenging due to parts availability.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a piece of Alfa Romeo history comes with its maintenance demands:

• Average annual maintenance cost: $700 - $1,000 USD.

Common Issues:

• Electrical gremlins affecting lighting systems.
• Vulnerable fuel system components requiring replacement.
• Aging upholstery and trim needing refurbishment.
• Typical oil leaks from older engine components.
• Potential rust problems in non-galvanized areas.

Rating

Overall Rating: 7.5/10

• Design: 8/10
• Comfort: 7/10
• Performance: 7.5/10
• Technology: 6/10
• Safety: 6.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

1. "I love the vintage feel and sense of connection with the road."
2. "Maintenance requires diligence, especially sourcing parts."
3. "A pleasure on twisty roads, but drinks more than modern equivalents."
4. "The minimalistic design has its charm but lacks creature comforts."
5. "A classic for collectors, not the best for everyday use."

Common Findings

• Praises: Timeless design, pure driving feel, good steering feedback.
• Criticisms: Lack of modern tech features, high maintenance needs.

Best cars in this category

• 1985 Porsche 944
• 1986 Mazda MX-5 Miata
• 1986 BMW Z1
• 1985 Toyota MR2
• 1987 Fiat X1/9

Summary

The 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider is best suited for enthusiasts who value classic design and driving purity over modern conveniences. Its timeless appeal and engaging dynamics offer an excellent entry into vintage motoring. While maintenance can prove challenging, for the passionate, its charm and character make it a worthwhile endeavor, showcasing the enduring allure of Alfa Romeo's craftsmanship.