2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 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 | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
