2003 TVR Chimaera vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (256 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 788 kg more than 2003 TVR Chimaera.
Because 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 TVR Chimaera. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 TVR Chimaera. (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 TVR Chimaera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 TVR Chimaera | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | TVR | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Chimaera | 159 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4546 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
