2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 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 120 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 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 2010 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
