1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 505 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |