2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 110 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2005 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 159 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1725 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
