1990 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 240 kg more than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider. (157 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 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 | 1160 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
