2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 523 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1985 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
