1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (152 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-7 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 152 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2440 mm |