2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2005 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 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 | 1435 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
