1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2002 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (600 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 69 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2002 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (335 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 2002 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2002 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 600 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1251 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
