1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,746 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (142 HP) has 93 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1979 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 146 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
