1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1973 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 275 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 1973 Mazda RX-4. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1973 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
