2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 109 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Golf | 146 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
