1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,746 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
