2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 26 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
