2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 (238 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Because 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 (402 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 5025 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
