2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 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 58 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (150 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 159 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 209 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 | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
