2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 3,458 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 488 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 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 (385 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3458 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
