2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | 156 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2005 | 1955 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 89 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 740 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |