1985 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (169 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 188 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. (178 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1960 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1161 kg | 1349 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |