2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,858 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 627 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 159 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
