2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1997 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 173 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. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2.
Because 1997 Toyota MR2 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 1997 Toyota MR2. 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 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota MR2. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1997 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Toyota |
| Model | 166 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 70 L |
