2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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 120 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Santana |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1025 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
