2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Audi 80
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 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 72 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 will offer significantly more control. 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 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Audi 80 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Audi |
| Model | 159 | 80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2144 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
