1996 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV weights approximately 77 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | GTV | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
