2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 247 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 58 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
