1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen K 70. (75 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 300 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
