2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 Honda NSX
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 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX 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 235 kg more than 1998 Honda NSX.
Because 1998 Honda NSX is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Honda NSX (310 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Honda |
| Model | 159 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
