2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mazda RX-2 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 1971 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
