1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1977 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-2 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 1977 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1977 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1977 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 146 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
