2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1973 Mazda RX-4

To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 1973 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Alfa Romeo 147 1973 Mazda RX-4
Make Alfa Romeo Mazda
Model 147 RX-4
Year Released 2005 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3179 cc 2616 cc
Engine Type V dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 240 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 289 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1485 kg 1110 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2520 mm