1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 671 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 121 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1805 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 |
