2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 75 L |
