2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 28 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 1,858 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 695 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.
Because 1980 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 159 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
