1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 200 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | Spider | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 144 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |