2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,458 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (169 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 561 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3458 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2400 mm |
