1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Golf | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
