1988 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Alfa Romeo 164 2003 Volkswagen Golf
Make Alfa Romeo Volkswagen
Model 164 Golf
Year Released 1988 2003
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2500 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 123 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4560 mm 4148 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1735 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2512 mm