1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
