2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 356 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 121 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 121. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 159 | 121 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 182 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |