2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Mazda RX-7
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-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda RX-7 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-7. 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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
