1999 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1981 Mazda RX-7 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 145 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
