2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1983 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Firebird. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1983 Pontiac Firebird 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 1983 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1983 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1983 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 159 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
