2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1989 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 191 kg more than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1989 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 159 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
