1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2001 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 Mazda 626 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2001 Mazda 626. 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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2001 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
