2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 Volvo S80
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 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 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 165 kg more than 1996 Volvo S80.
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, 1996 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. 1996 Volvo S80 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. 1996 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
