1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 240 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 146 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
