2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
