2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat 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 177 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 530 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
