1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (153 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 153 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
