2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 159 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
