2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 TVR Speed 12
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 TVR Speed 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Speed 12 would be higher. At 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (800 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 642 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Speed 12 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 603 kg more than 1997 TVR Speed 12.
Because 1997 TVR Speed 12 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 1997 TVR Speed 12. 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, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 691 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Speed 12 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 | 1997 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 159 | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 800 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 337 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
