1986 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8

To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 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 1,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 417 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 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (111 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8
Make Alfa Romeo Mazda
Model 33 RX-8
Year Released 1986 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1351 cc 1308 cc
Engine Type boxer dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 78 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 8500 RPM
Torque 111 Nm 216 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 5500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 912 kg 1329 kg
Vehicle Length 4020 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 6 L/100km 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 60 L