1990 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,962 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 225 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider (166 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Passat |
Year Released | 1990 | 1980 |
Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 166 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |