2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (142 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 331 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 156 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 8.4 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 | 1340 kg | 1671 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |