1979 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 582 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda RX-2 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-2 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2600 mm |
