2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 245 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1725 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
