2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
