1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 146 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
