2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 237 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 169 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
