2000 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 290 kg more than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
