2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1980 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 970 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volkswagen 1302 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 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1980 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 159 | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
