2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 530 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2001 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 350 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 3.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
