2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 26 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 3 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1329 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
