2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 250 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2002 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
