1991 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ weights approximately 450 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ 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 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, 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, 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | SZ | 3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
