2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1975 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1975 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1975 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1975 Mazda RX-2 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 1975 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1975 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
