2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,858 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
