1985 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 52 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 4 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 Polo, 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 Polo (196 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo Spider. (178 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Polo |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1960 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1161 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
