1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | Spider | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 87.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |