1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 14 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 545 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
