1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,763 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (143 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
