ALFA ROMEO SPIDER (1990)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 221 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
221
Avg Mileage
64,287 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 34 years old, 83% of ALFA ROMEO SPIDERs from 1990 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 221 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 64,287 miles.
How does the 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER has 64,287 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 251,600 miles for a 34-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a ALFA ROMEO SPIDER?
The most reliable year is the 2004 model with a 87% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 71%. The 1990 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
ALFA ROMEO SPIDER by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 98% | 44 | 56,956 mi |
| 2010 | 86% | 201 | 66,384 mi |
| 2009 | 83% | 230 | 66,700 mi |
| 2008 | 82% | 1,036 | 69,381 mi |
| 2007 | 79% | 1,012 | 76,866 mi |
| 2005 | 79% | 113 | 59,726 mi |
| 2004 | 87% | 102 | 74,816 mi |
| 2003 | 73% | 186 | 83,492 mi |
| 2002 | 83% | 201 | 86,604 mi |
| 2001 | 80% | 522 | 82,494 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 285 | 87,083 mi |
| 1999 | 74% | 672 | 87,986 mi |
| 1998 | 73% | 532 | 85,540 mi |
| 1997 | 71% | 515 | 89,378 mi |
| 1996 | 74% | 322 | 77,780 mi |
| 1995 | 59% | 37 | 71,483 mi |
| 1993 | 84% | 51 | 57,573 mi |
| 1992 | 78% | 160 | 78,273 mi |
| 1991 | 81% | 298 | 74,647 mi |
| 1990 | 83% | 221 | 64,287 mi |
Checking a specific ALFA ROMEO SPIDER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER
The 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER is a premium with a 1962cc petrol engine. 221 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 1990, the average MOT pass rate is 79%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 64,287 miles at 34 years old, ALFA ROMEO SPIDER owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER Fuel Costs
The 1962cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
ALFA ROMEO SPIDER Reliability Trend
Newer ALFA ROMEO SPIDERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER
At 34 years old, the ALFA ROMEO SPIDER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2004 model has the highest pass rate at 87%.
Alternatives to the 1990 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (1991) 80% pass rate (-3%) from 5,191 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (1990) 84% pass rate (+1%) from 3,316 tests
- FORD ESCORT (1990) 85% pass rate (+2%) from 2,672 tests
- MAZDA MX-5 (1991) 78% pass rate (-5%) from 1,798 tests