2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 73 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
