1989 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 1,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 33. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 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, 1989 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 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo 33. (113 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo 33. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 has manual transmission. 1989 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:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 33 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | boxer | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
