1983 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 359 kg more than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1983 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 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New 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, 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider (183 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1399 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |