1985 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 146 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1985 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 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (178 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1960 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1161 kg | 1307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
