1982 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1982 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 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Beetle |
Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1570 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
Torque | 145 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |