2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 6 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 3,178 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 105 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 147 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
