2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 150 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 146 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |