2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 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 2,490 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 2261 cc |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
