1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mazda 929
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1979 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 929 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 1979 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 929. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 929 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
