1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-2 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 1972 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda RX-2 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-2 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2550 mm |
