1998 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1980 Mazda 929
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 929. (89 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 198 kg more than 1980 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mazda 929 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 1980 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1980 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | 929 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
