2006 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Alfa Romeo 147. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 147 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
