2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 166 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
