2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 105 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 159 | 280 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |