2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1972 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (215 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 389 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volkswagen 1600 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 1972 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1972 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
