1980 Ferrari 208 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 31 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1980 Ferrari 208. (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ferrari 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 208. 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, 2011 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ferrari 208. (171 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ferrari 208 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 208 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
