2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Mazda 929
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 929. (89 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1981 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
