2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1978 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 147 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 35 L |
