2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 @ 6200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 239 kg more than 2008 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
