2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1997 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 159 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
