2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp would be higher. At 5,762 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp 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 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp (450 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 De Tomaso Longchamp | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | De Tomaso |
| Model | 159 | Longchamp |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 5762 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
