2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 159 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
