2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
