2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1974 Fiat 124
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP) has 124 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 1974 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1974 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 159 | 124 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 38 L |
