2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. 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 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
