2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1974 Ferrari 308
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ferrari 308 (247 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 237 kg more than 1974 Ferrari 308.
Because 1974 Ferrari 308 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 1974 Ferrari 308. 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, 1974 Ferrari 308 (290 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1974 Ferrari 308 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 159 | 308 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 71 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1602 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
