2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 560 kg more than 1980 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
