1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 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 50 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 228 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 180 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 | 1385 kg | 1157 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 4.3 L/100km |
