2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
