2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 39 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 (218 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
