2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (247 HP) has 139 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
