2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo

To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,292 cc (2 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (120 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.

Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Alfa Romeo 147 1981 Mazda Cosmo
Make Alfa Romeo Mazda
Model 147 Cosmo
Year Released 2003 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1909 cc 2292 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 99 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 162 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1345 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2620 mm