2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 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 100 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2005 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 159 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
