2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 117 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 464 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 166 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
