2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Mazda 929
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 929. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1987 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mazda 929 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 1987 Mazda 929. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 929. (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
