2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (236 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 170 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2110 mm |
