2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 159 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
