2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
