2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 150 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2001 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
