1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 6 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), 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 437 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 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 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 2004 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 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| 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 | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
