1991 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ weights approximately 440 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ 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 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Alfa Romeo SZ | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | SZ | Beetle |
Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |