1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1977 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 121 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 1977 Mazda 121. 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 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Mazda 121 | 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 121 | 159 |
Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1910 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |