2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1985 Alfa Romeo 90
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 would be higher. At 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. (109 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 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 1985 Alfa Romeo 90. 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 (235 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 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 | 1985 Alfa Romeo 90 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 159 | 90 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
