2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 167 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-8 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
