2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260
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 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 68 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 Mercedes-Benz 260. 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
