2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1979 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 348 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda RX-2 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 1979 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1308 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
