1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (102 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 85 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 (261 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 146 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
