Alfa Romeo 147

vs

Mazda Mazdaspeed 3

Italy vs Japan — 2000 vs 2006

Alfa Romeo 147 (2000)
Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 (2006)
Specifications
147 GTA V6 3.2Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo
Horsepower250 hp263 hp
Torque221 lb-ft280 lb-ft
Engine Size3,179 cc2,261 cc
0-60 mph6.0 sec5.4 sec
Top Speed153 mph155 mph
¼ Mile14.4 sec14.0 sec
Weight2,998 lbs3,168 lbs
Wheelbase2,546 mm2,640 mm
Length4,223 mm4,490 mm
Original MSRP$23,700
Value (Excellent)$35,000$25,000
Collectibility6/105/10
Rarity6/105/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 2000 Alfa Romeo 147 GTA V6 3.2 offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo counters with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When Italy engineering meets Japan craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 2000 Alfa Romeo 147 GTA V6 3.2 and 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 2000 Alfa Romeo 147 GTA V6 3.2 producing 250 hp and the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo delivering 263 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo 147 uses a V6 DOHC displacing 3,179 cc, while the Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged with 2,261 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 6.0 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.