1974 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 494 kg more than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (155 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. (121 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 155 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1478 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |