1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1970 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1970 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1970 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 425 kg more than 1970 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Mazda RX-2 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 1970 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1970 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
