1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Passat, 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, both vehicles can yield 121 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1287 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 121 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |