1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 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 1,970 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 40 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
