1986 Ferrari 208 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1986 Ferrari 208. (217 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ferrari 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 563 kg more than 1986 Ferrari 208. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ferrari 208. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ferrari 208. (240 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ferrari 208 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 208 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 70 L |
