2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 205 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 2 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
