2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1986 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mazda RX-7. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda RX-7. (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1986 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
