2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 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. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |