2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 528 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda RX-2 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 1979 Mazda RX-2. 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 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Mazda RX-2 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | RX-2 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 289 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |