2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-8 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 51 L |
