2007 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 117 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 166 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 61 L |
