2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (192 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164, 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 Alfa Romeo 164 (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | RX-8 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
