2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,969 cc, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | 626 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1768 cc |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 93 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 995 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |