2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-4 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 1972 Mazda RX-4. 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 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 Mazda RX-4 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 159 | RX-4 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |