1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 146 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
