2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 Mazda 929
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 27 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 375 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (289 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
