1986 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 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 1,717 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (116 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 465 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 33 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1717 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | boxer | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
