2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 20 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 48 L |
