2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 103 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 172 kg more than 2002 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 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 166 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
