2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 Volvo 245
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 245. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 245.
Because 1988 Volvo 245 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 1988 Volvo 245. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 245. (158 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 245 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
