2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 10 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 163 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
