2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Mazda 929
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,490 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
