2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 59 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. 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, both vehicles can yield 146 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
