2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 828 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
