1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 1,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 150 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider (121 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm). This means 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Golf |
Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1287 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 121 Nm | 96 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |