2002 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (150 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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 6 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. 2002 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 6 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
