2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
