1980 Ferrari 208 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Ferrari 208 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 1980 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ferrari 208. (171 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ferrari 208 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 208 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2600 mm |
