1991 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 2011 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 704 kg more than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ 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 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. 2011 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ has manual transmission. 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ | 2011 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | SZ | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1964 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
