2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 67 kg more than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
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, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
