2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 207 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
