2001 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (124 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1971 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 146 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
