2003 Mazda 2 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 2 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
