1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 166 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
