2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6 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 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6. 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Alfa Romeo GTV6 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 159 | GTV6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
