2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1979 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda RX-2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 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 1979 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1979 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 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 |
