2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1985 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1985 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 65 L |
