1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Golf | 159 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 11.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
