1985 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33.
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, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 has manual transmission. 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 33 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | boxer | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
