1997 Alfa Romeo 155 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 155 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
