2003 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo GT weights approximately 75 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo GT has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo GT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo GT | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
