2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1985 Alfa Romeo 90
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. (109 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 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 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. (246 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 159 | 90 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
