1987 Alfa Romeo 90 vs. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo 90 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 90. (130 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Alfa Romeo 90 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 1987 Alfa Romeo 90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 90. (176 Nm). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 90 | 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 90 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
