2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
