1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,746 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
