2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 155
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 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 138 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. 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 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. 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 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 159 | 155 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
