2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,908 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 79 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 159 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
