1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 500 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, 1998 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1963 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |