2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | 159 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 1956 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 182 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 88 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 7.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |