1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 221 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 146 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.8 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
