2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 404 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
