2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 Ferrari Testarossa
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ferrari Testarossa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ferrari Testarossa would be higher. At 4,943 cc (12 cylinders), 1988 Ferrari Testarossa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ferrari Testarossa (385 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ferrari Testarossa should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ferrari Testarossa weights approximately 50 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 1988 Ferrari Testarossa 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 1988 Ferrari Testarossa. 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, 1988 Ferrari Testarossa (500 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Ferrari Testarossa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 Ferrari Testarossa | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 159 | Testarossa |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 4943 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
