2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2012 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2012 Toyota Prius is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 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 122 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Prius. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 304 kg more than 2012 Toyota Prius. 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 2012 Toyota Prius. 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 (323 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Prius. (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2012 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Toyota |
| Model | 159 | Prius |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1745 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
