1991 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 830 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 121 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 121 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
