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 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Golf | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
