1971 Subaru R-2 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1145 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 1971 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Subaru R-2 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Subaru | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | R-2 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2710 mm |
