2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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 156 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Santana |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1308 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
