2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 305 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mazda MPV 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 1996 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MPV. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | MPV |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2850 mm |
