2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 11 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |