2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
