1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 16 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Golf | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| 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 | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
