2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (916, facelift 2003) Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:2003
Production Years:2003 - 2004 discontinued in 2004
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
4299 mm169.3 in14.1 ft
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
1776 mm69.9 in5.8 ft
Length
4299 mm169.3 in14.1 ft
Width
1776 mm69.9 in5.8 ft
Height
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
Trunk Capacity
147 liter5.2 cu ft
Technical Details

Exterior Dimensions

Precise measurements of the 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider, engineered for optimal performance and comfort

Dimensions
Length:4299 mm169.3 in14.1 ft
Width:1776 mm69.9 in5.8 ft
Height:1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
Trunk Capacity:147 liter5.2 cu ft
Weight Specifications
Curb Weight:1405 - 1470 kg3097 - 3241 lbs
Maximal permitted Weight:1665 - 1730 kg3671 - 3814 lbs
Tire Specifications
Rims Sizes:7J x 16, 7.5J X 17
Tire Sizes:205/50 R16 (W:205 | H:50 | D:16)
225/45 R17 (W:225 | H:45 | D:17)
Useful Information

About 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider

The Alfa Romeo Spider (916 series, facelifted in 2003) represents the final iteration of the beloved Italian cabriolet, produced between 2003 and 2004. This sporty two-door convertible combines Italian design elegance with balanced proportions and dimensions to deliver an engaging driving experience. The 2003 Spider measures 4299 mm (169.1 inches) in length, 1776 mm (69.9 inches) in width, and stands 1315 mm (51.8 inches) tall, offering a sleek and low profile that enhances its road presence and aerodynamic efficiency.

Its curb weight ranges from 1405 to 1470 kg (3097 to 3241 lbs), reflecting a carefully considered balance between lightweight construction and structural integrity for optimal handling and performance. The maximum authorized weight lies between 1665 and 1730 kg (3672 to 3814 lbs), indicating the vehicle's capacity to carry passengers and cargo safely.

Storage space in the Spider is modest, with a luggage capacity of 147 liters (5.19 cubic feet), typical for a compact cabriolet, sufficient for light luggage or groceries. Wheel configurations include rim sizes of 7J x 16 for the standard setup and 7.5J x 17 for sportier variants, paired with tire sizes of 205/50 R16 and 225/45 R17 respectively, contributing to the car's agile handling and responsive road grip.

Overall, the 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider 916 facelift combines classic Italian styling cues with precise dimensions optimized for sporty open-top driving. It remains a cherished model for enthusiasts seeking a compact, stylish cabriolet that promises both exciting performance and a distinct road presence.

Exceptional Features

2003 Alfa Romeo Spider Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider a leader in its class

Engine Options

The 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (916, facelift) offers a range of engines including a 2.0L inline-4 and a 3.0L V6, providing a balance of sportiness and refinement.

Exterior Design

Featuring a refreshed front grille and updated headlights following the 2003 facelift, the Spider maintains its classic Italian roadster styling with sleek lines and a compact convertible body.

Convertible Roof

The Spider comes with a manual soft top that can be easily retracted, offering an open-air driving experience quintessential to classic roadsters.

Chassis and Handling

Built on a lightweight chassis with rear-wheel drive, the 2003 Spider delivers agile handling and a sporty driving experience, enhanced by precise steering and a well-tuned suspension.

Interior Features

The interior combines Italian design flair with functional elements, including leather seats, updated instrumentation with a more modern look, and ergonomic controls introduced during the facelift.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.

The Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) takes a classic Cabriolet form with precise dimensions. It measures 4299 mm (approximately 169.3 inches) in length, offering ample presence on the road without compromising urban maneuverability. The width stands at 1776 mm (about 69.9 inches), contributing to stability and a sporty stance. Height is set at a sleek 1315 mm (around 51.8 inches), which emphasizes the car’s low-profile road-hugging design. These dimensions combined make the Spider a well-balanced sports convertible, easily distinguished by its proportional and elegant design.

The curb weight of the Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) ranges between 1405 kg to 1470 kg (3100 to 3240 lbs), depending on the exact trim and optional equipment fitted. Curb weight refers to the weight of the car with all standard equipment, fluids, and a full tank of fuel but without passengers or cargo. The maximum weight, which indicates the legally allowable total weight including passengers and cargo, ranges from 1665 kg to 1730 kg (3673 to 3814 lbs). This difference highlights the vehicle's payload capacity, demonstrating how much additional weight it can safely carry beyond its empty weight.

The Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) offers a luggage capacity of 147 liters (about 5.2 cubic feet). While this is modest compared to larger vehicles, it is typical for convertibles in the sports car class. The compact luggage space is suitable for daily essentials, a small suitcase, or grocery bags. However, it may not accommodate large or bulky items, making it less ideal for extended trips requiring big cargo capacity. Its design prioritizes sporty aesthetics and open-air driving experience over maximum storage.

Yes, rim and tire sizes can significantly influence handling and ride quality. The Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) comes with rims sized 7J x 16 inches or optionally 7.5J x 17 inches. Corresponding tires are 205/50 R16 or 225/45 R17 respectively. Larger rims and lower-profile tires (the 17-inch setup) generally improve cornering grip and vehicle responsiveness due to stiffer sidewalls but may slightly reduce ride comfort on rough roads. The 16-inch rims with higher-profile tires offer a bit more cushioning, which can be preferable for everyday driving, balancing sportiness with comfort.

Yes, the Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) typically fits comfortably within a standard residential garage. With a length of 4299 mm (approximately 4.3 meters or 169.3 inches), a width of 1776 mm (1.78 meters or 69.9 inches), and a height of 1315 mm (1.32 meters or approximately 51.8 inches), it falls well within the dimensions most garages accommodate. Most standard garages are around 6 meters deep and 3 meters wide internally, giving ample clearance around the Spider for easy parking, opening the doors, and walking around the vehicle.

The 2003 facelift of the Alfa Romeo Spider (916 series) maintained largely the same overall size as the original 1995-2002 models. Both generations share the same fundamental platform and design language with subtle refinements made during the facelift, such as refreshed bumpers and updated interior details. The length and width remain very similar, with only slight dimensional adjustments that do not significantly change its road presence or interior space. The facelift primarily focused on styling and mechanical updates rather than major dimensional changes, ensuring continuity for enthusiasts while enhancing the car's overall refinement.

Compared to similar sports cabriolets from the early 2000s such as the BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, and Mercedes SLK, the Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) is competitive in size and weight. It offers a slightly longer length than the BMW Z3 (around 4130 mm) and a comparable footprint to the Porsche Boxster which measures about 4290 mm. Weight-wise, the Spider is in the mid-range category with 1405-1470 kg, generally a bit heavier than the Boxster but lighter than some versions of the Mercedes SLK. The Spider's width and low height contribute to sporty handling and a stable road feel. Overall, it comfortably fits into the compact sports convertible category, with dimensions and weight competing well among its European peers.

The 2003 facelift of the Alfa Romeo Spider (916) primarily introduced aesthetic and technical refinements rather than wholesale redesign. Key updates included refreshed front and rear bumpers, improved headlight and taillight designs, and interior upgrades such as revised seats and enhanced instrumentation for better driver experience. Mechanically, there were some tuning improvements to engines and suspension for enhanced performance and comfort. Additionally, safety features and options were updated to meet newer regulations. Overall, the facelift was about modernizing and polishing the existing formula, preserving the Spider's iconic styling and drive while enhancing refinement and usability.

Given its dimensions—4299 mm in length, 1776 mm wide, and a height of 1315 mm—the Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) offers a classic two-seater roadster layout prioritized for sporty driving rather than extensive passenger space. Space is intimate but adequate for two adults, with a focus on providing an engaging driving experience. The cabin is low-slung, enhancing driver visibility and road connection but limiting headroom somewhat, particularly for taller passengers. Comfort is enhanced by well-contoured seats and quality interior materials. However, rear passenger space is non-existent as it is strictly a two-seat convertible. This makes it ideal for weekend drives and urban cruising rather than long trips or family use.

The Alfa Romeo Spider (916 facelift 2003) comes with two main tire size options: 205/50 R16 and 225/45 R17, corresponding to 16-inch and 17-inch rim sizes respectively. The 205/50 R16 tires are slightly taller in sidewall height, providing a softer ride and good comfort levels on a variety of road surfaces. In contrast, the 225/45 R17 tires offer a wider footprint and lower profile, which improves grip and responsiveness during cornering and spirited driving. While the 17-inch setup enhances sporty handling characteristics, it may transmit more road irregularities to the cabin. Drivers can choose between these setups based on preferences for comfort versus performance.

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