2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1974 Ferrari 308
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 33 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 65 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 250 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, 2007 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1974 Ferrari 308 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 159 | 308 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 71 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
