2009 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 1 kg more than 2009 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (85 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Polo | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Polo | 146 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
