1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate (115 HP) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate 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 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. (163 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate has manual transmission. 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Graduate | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
