1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 230 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 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 146 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 61 L |
