2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
