2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 546 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1602 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
