1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,746 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. 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 146 (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 146 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
