1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 7 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. (115 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 145 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
