1996 Alfa Romeo 155 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 155 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
