2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 439 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
