2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,292 cc (2 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. 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 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. 1981 Mazda Cosmo has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Mazda Cosmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Mazda Cosmo | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | Cosmo |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1774 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |