2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1998 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
