2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 820 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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 159 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
