1988 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 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 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 91 kg more than 2008 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 164 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| 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 |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
