1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 121 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1755 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 |
