1985 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 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 1,960 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 153 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. (178 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1960 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 12.4 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 | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |