2005 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
