2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 Rover 3.5
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1972 Rover 3.5. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1972 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1972 Rover 3.5 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 1972 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1972 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. 1972 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Rover |
| Model | 159 | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |
