2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 223 kg more than 1998 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Honda S-MX 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. 1998 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Honda |
| Model | 159 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
