1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 188 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 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. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
