2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 150 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1983 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1400 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
