2000 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7. 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
