2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,354 cc, 1986 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1986 Mazda RX-7 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 1986 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
