2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Dodge Mirada
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Dodge Mirada (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Dodge Mirada should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 360 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Dodge Mirada 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 Dodge Mirada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1979 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Dodge Mirada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Dodge Mirada | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Dodge |
| Model | 156 | Mirada |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5209 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2870 mm |
