2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 2 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 190 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1725 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
