1975 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Volkswagen GLI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GLI is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider. (132 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI should accelerate faster than 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen GLI weights approximately 196 kg more than 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen GLI is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI will offer significantly more control. 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 GLI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen GLI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Volkswagen GLI | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | GLI |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
