2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,244 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione (399 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione weights approximately 680 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione (450 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 8C Competizione | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4244 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
