1969 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 318 kg more than 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider (170 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (127 Nm). This means 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
