2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 9 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-8 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
