1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 390 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | Spider | RX-2 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2290 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 144 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |