2002 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 166 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
