2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 146 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1139 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 50 L |
