2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 238 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
