2007 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
