1983 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1983 Alfa Romeo 33. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Alfa Romeo 33. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 33 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | boxer | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
