2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Audi |
| Model | 159 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
