2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2012 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 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.6 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
