1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 280 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 70 L |
