2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
