2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1986 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 1986 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda RX-7. (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
