1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 37 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 166 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 226 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 276 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1392 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 61 L |