2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 626. (116 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1990 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Mazda 626 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mazda 626 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 Mazda 626 (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
