1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (136 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 385 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
