2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo 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 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 159 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
