1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 286 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2460 mm |
