2002 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2002 Mazda 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 323 (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2002 Mazda 323.
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 Mazda 323 (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (115 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 323 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 67.2 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 | 1160 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
