2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1992 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1992 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1992 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1992 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 1992 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, 1992 Mazda RX-7 (270 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1992 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1992 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1992 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
