1981 Ford Falcon vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 478 kg more than 1981 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Falcon. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Falcon. (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Falcon | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Ford | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Falcon | 159 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
