1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP) has 148 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 59 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
