1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 2003 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (259 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 164 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
