2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |