2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2000 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 460 kg more than 2000 Mazda 121. 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 156 (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2000 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2460 mm |
