1999 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 145 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.2:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 35 L |
