2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour 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 204 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 159 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
