2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo 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 114 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 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 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
