2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1972 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (173 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 614 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volkswagen 1600 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 1972 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 166 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1972 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 166 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 40 L |
