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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 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 36 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2492 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
