1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 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 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 146 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
