2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 560 kg more than 2003 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
