2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 524 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1602 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
