1986 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1998 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (116 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (294 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1998 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 33 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1717 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | boxer | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
