2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-8 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1285 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 63 L |
