1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2008 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
