2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 85 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
