2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. 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 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 159 | 626 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |