1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2002 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (600 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 461 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 134 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2002 Volkswagen W12 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 2002 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (335 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2002 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2002 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | W12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 600 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 349 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1251 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
