1980 Alfa Romeo 179 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8

To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (12 cylinders), 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. (132 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. (177 Nm). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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