2002 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1990 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1990 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1990 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 Alfa Romeo 166 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1990 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2440 mm |
