2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 TVR Chimaera
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 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 660 kg more than 2003 TVR Chimaera.
Because 2003 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 TVR Chimaera. (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 TVR Chimaera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 159 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
