2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. 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 (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
