1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 190 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 Polo, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. (121 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Polo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1287 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
