2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1971 Ford Escort

To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1971 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Ford Escort 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 1971 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Alfa Romeo 159 1971 Ford Escort
Make Alfa Romeo Ford
Model 159 Escort
Year Released 2005 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1859 cc 1098 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 158 HP 38 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 68 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1480 kg 805 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2400 mm