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 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP) has 148 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP). 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 845 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 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 | 2386 cc | 1116 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 142 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 | 1705 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
