2002 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 500 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 61 L |
