1996 Peugeot 406 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Peugeot 406. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 406. (130 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Peugeot 406 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 406 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1618 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
