2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1988 Mazda 626
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 143 kg more than 1988 Mazda 626. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1988 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 147 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1122 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
