2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 8 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 520 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
