2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 848 kg more than 1991 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
