1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 Mazda RX-7 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-7 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
