2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 661 kg more than 1981 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 159 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
