1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 1,962 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider (131 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 240 kg more than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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, 2004 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 (190 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
