2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1955 Austin-Healey 100
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 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 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin-Healey |
| Model | 159 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2660 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 109 L |
