2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 713 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
