1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. (89 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Alfa Romeo Alfasud | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Alfasud | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1186 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
