2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 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 176 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 760 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3458 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 300 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 385 Nm | 167 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2340 mm |