1985 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 234 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, 2005 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (178 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm). This means 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1960 cc | 1968 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 | 170 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 | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1161 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
