1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (123 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
