2006 Alpina Roadster vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Alpina Roadster 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina Roadster (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 220 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.
Because 2006 Alpina Roadster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Alpina Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina Roadster | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mazda |
| Model | Roadster | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
