1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (125 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 Passat (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
