1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 HP) has 173 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (276 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 166 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 40 L |
