2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 79 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.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| 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 | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
