2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 345 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Astro 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 2003 Chevrolet Astro. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 159 | Astro |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 4292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 117 L |
