2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |