1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 520 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (276 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 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. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 48 L |
