2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1975 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1975 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1975 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1975 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mazda RX-3 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 1975 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mazda RX-3. (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1975 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
