1997 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
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 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
