2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 159 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2615 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |