2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 404 kg more than 1985 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
