2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 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 (120 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1998 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 (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
