2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 850. (209 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1994 Volvo 850. 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 1994 Volvo 850. 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 850. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
