2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Dodge Mirada
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Mirada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 70 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1981 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 1981 Dodge Mirada. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Dodge Mirada.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Dodge Mirada | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Dodge |
| Model | 159 | Mirada |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 5210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 99.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2870 mm |
