2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1952 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1952 Jaguar XK. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1952 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1952 Jaguar XK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Jaguar XK 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 1952 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Jaguar XK. (290 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Jaguar XK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1952 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | 159 | XK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 106 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
