1998 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. (129 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 291 kg more than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saab 03-Sep | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Saab | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 03-Sep | 159 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
