2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 166 | RX-3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1963 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 65 L |