1985 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 155 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33.
Because 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (245 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. (135 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 33 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2270 mm |
