2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1974 Reliant Rebel
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1974 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1085 kg more than 1974 Reliant Rebel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Reliant Rebel 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 Reliant Rebel. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Reliant Rebel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1974 Reliant Rebel | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Reliant |
| Model | 159 | Rebel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |
