1984 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1984 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. (93 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33. (130 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 33 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | boxer | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
