2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 68 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1422 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 Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
