2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-2 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3177 cc | 2290 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |