2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 Toyota Starlet
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 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Starlet. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 900 kg more than 1998 Toyota Starlet. 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 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Toyota Starlet. (101 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Toyota |
| Model | 159 | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
