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 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 709 kg more than 1989 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 236 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 | 2385 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
