1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo vs. 1980 Austin Marina
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1980 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Marina.
Because 1980 Austin Marina 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 1980 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Marina. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo | 1980 Austin Marina | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | Dardo | Marina |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 70.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
