2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1311 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |